Joint study into ammonia as alternative marine fuel

CLASSIFICATION society ClassNK and 22 industry players have entered into a memorandum of understanding on a joint study of ammonia as an alternative marine fuel beyond industry boundaries.

The study will include safety assessment of NH3 (ammonia)-fuelled ships; safety assessment of NH3 bunkering; NH3 fuel specification; and net CO₂ emission at NH3 production.

The project will also work with NH3 producers, relevant international organisations, port authorities/regulators in potential bunkering countries to share their opinions and experience.

This joint study framework keeps door open for companies or organisations that have an interest in participating.

The project’s proponents believe that in order to achieve climate targets set down by the International Maritime Organization, the early adoption of ammonia as a maritime fuel will be a “key element”.

The project will also look at the development of ammonia-fuelled ships and the development of worldwide supply chain of ammonia by Itochu and other partners.

The 23 founding signatories of this Joint Study framework include ABS, Anglo American, ClassNK, DNV, Equinor, Fortescue Metals, Genco Shipping, Jera, K-Line, MAN Energy Solutions, Mitsui, Nihon Shipyard, NS United, Pavilion Energy, Total Energies, Trafigura, UBE Industries, Uniper SE, Uyeno Transtech, Vale, Vopa Terminal Singapore, Itochu Enex and Itochu.